Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of black bean soup. This flavorful and nutritious dish is a perfect choice for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of delicious spices, this favorite black bean soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, lime wedges
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the drained and rinsed black beans to the pot. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
3. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the spices into the mixture until everything is evenly coated.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture.
6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
7. Serve the black bean soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice.
**Tips:**
– For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream before serving.
– To add a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
– This soup can be easily customized by adding in other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or spinach.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this favorite black bean soup recipe is a versatile and delicious option. Enjoy the rich flavors and nourishing ingredients in every spoonful of this homemade soup.
